Modesto, CA – Authorities have identified 53-year-old Sue Crawford as the woman who lost her life on the morning of Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in a head-on collision, according to The Modesto Bee.
The Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District reports that the accident took place around 5:48 AM near the intersection of Mitchell Road and Tenaya Drive, close to the Modesto City–County Airport.
Authorities say the crash involved a 2025 Ford SUV driven by Crawford, who was pronounced dead at the scene, and a 2007 Cadillac SUV driven by 64-year-old Noel Mendoza-Manlulu of Modesto.
Two passengers in Crawford’s vehicle, a 34-year-old woman from Hughson and a 67-year-old man from Waterford, suffered major injuries and were transported to Memorial Medical Center. Mendoza-Manlulu sustained minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital.
One dog in Crawford’s vehicle was injured, while the other was unharmed. Animal Control responded to assist with the injured animal.
According to the preliminary investigation, Crawford was traveling north on Mitchell Road and entered the southbound lane for unknown reasons, where she collided head-on with the Cadillac. Both vehicles came to rest, partially blocking the roadway.
Emergency responders cleared the scene later that morning after tow services and the coroner completed their work. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is devastating, and the pain can be made worse by the financial strain that often follows. Medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support dependents of the deceased can leave families struggling. Filing a Wrongful Death claim against those responsible can provide compensation to help with these expenses.
